Classic Chocolate Cake (Rich, Moist & Truly the Best Ever!)

How to Make Classic Chocolate Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chocolate Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round pans, dust with cocoa powder, and line bottoms with parchment.

2. Add all dry ingredients to a stand mixer bowl and mix to combine.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk wet ingredients, slowly adding hot water to prevent cooking the eggs.

4. Add wet ingredients to dry and mix on medium for 2–3 minutes. Batter will be thin.

5. Divide evenly between prepared pans.

6. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a tester comes out mostly clean.

7. Cool 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

🔥 The smell while this bakes is absolutely incredible!!

How to Make Chocolate Swiss Meringue Buttercream

1. Combine egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl and whisk.

2. Place over a double boiler, whisking constantly until hot and smooth (about 3 minutes or 160°F).

3. Transfer to stand mixer and whisk on medium-high until stiff, glossy, and cooled.

4. Switch to paddle attachment and slowly add butter until smooth.

5. Add cooled melted chocolate and whip until silky.

Assembling the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.

2. Spread about 1 cup of buttercream evenly on top.

3. Add the second layer and apply a thin crumb coat. Chill for 20 minutes.

4. Frost the top and sides smoothly.

5. Decorate with swirls, piped borders, and chocolate curls if desired.

What to Serve With Chocolate Cake

• Fresh berries

• Vanilla ice cream

• Espresso or coffee

• Whipped cream

Tips for the Best Chocolate Cake

• Use room-temperature ingredients

• Sift cocoa powder for a smoother batter

• Chill frosting slightly if it becomes too soft

• Let cake come to room temperature before serving

Storage Instructions

• Store covered at room temperature for 1 day

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days

• Bring to room temperature before serving

General Information

This cake is sturdy enough for decorating yet soft enough to melt in your mouth—ideal for birthdays, holidays, and special celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the layers a day ahead and frost before serving.

Is Swiss meringue buttercream very sweet?

No—it’s smoother and less sweet than traditional buttercream.

Can I freeze the cake layers?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make cupcakes instead?

Absolutely—bake for 18–22 minutes.

Conclusion

This Classic Chocolate Cake is everything a chocolate cake should be—rich, moist, elegant, and surprisingly easy. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll save, share, and bake again and again.

You May Also Love These Desserts

• Australian Chocolate Slice

• Strawberry Swirl Loaf

• Pineapple Bread Pudding

• No-Bake Peanut Butter Haystacks

Let’s Make It Interactive!

⭐ Leave a review if you bake this cake
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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Slice)

• Calories: 520

• Carbohydrates: 62g

• Protein: 6g

• Fat: 28g

• Sugar: 45g

Rich, indulgent, and baked with love—this classic chocolate cake truly earns its name 🍫🎂💛